Related Stories

The public works committee wants the most expensive option for the Gardiner Expressway East.

Councillors opted Tuesday for the $1.05-billion hybrid design that would be built further away from the Keating Channel and the Don River.

The design — if approved by council on March 30 — will allow for enhanced public areas including a two-sided Queens Quay extension and an unencumbered water’s edge along Keating Channel, as well as pathways and intersection improvements.

Although the hybrid is the costliest of the three options being considered, city staff pointed out it has the potential to open up more land for development in the area.

Construction would take five years.

Here’s some highlights from Tuesday’s public works debate:

— “This is great for waterfront revitalization and great for streamlined transportation ... It’s expensive, but the value we will get is something we had to consider,” said Councillor Jaye Robinson, chair of the public works committee.

— “I was a proponent of the removal option, but I think we have found the right spot for everyone to land,” Councillor Mary-Margaret McMahon said.

— “The funding is substantial, but we have to do it right. This is better for the long-term strategy (of up to 100 years),” Councillor Ron Moeser said.

— “We have seen Toronto realize its potential with the Pan Am Athletes’ Village, the Corus building and George Brown College on the lake. None of this was done by taking the low-cost option and settling for mediocrity and expediency,” said John Wilson, co-chairman of the West Don Lands Committee.

— “If you plan for cars, you get cars. When you provide for cars, you get congestion. Public transit is the way to go,” cyclist Hamish Wilson said.

Sponsored Links

$1B hybrid design option sought for Gardiner

The public works committee wants the most expensive option for the Gardiner Expressway East.

Councillors opted Tuesday for the $1.05-billion hybrid design that would be built further away from the Keating Channel and the Don River.

The design — if approved by council on March 30 — will allow for enhanced public areas including a two-sided Queens Quay extension and an unencumbered water’s edge along Keating Channel, as well as pathways and intersection improvements.

Although the hybrid is the costliest of the three options being considered, city staff pointed out it has the potential to open up more land for development in the area.